Photo of Gwenn Herman - Painted Desert Psychotherapy, Gwenn Herman, LCSW, , LCSW, DCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Painted Desert Psychotherapy, Gwenn Herman, LCSW,
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I have chronic pain due to a car accident over 30 years ago and use what I have learned on my personal journey to help others develop a quality of life.
When I meet someone for the first time, I create a safe place free of judgement and open for them to tell their story. As they speak, I hear their words and voice tone. I look at their face, eyes, hands, feet, whole body, energy and see what they are also telling me. Then I develop a sense of who they are.
I have chronic pain due to a car accident over 30 years ago and use what I have learned on my personal journey to help others develop a quality of life.
When I meet someone for the first time, I create a safe place free of judgement and open for them to tell their story. As they speak, I hear their words and voice tone. I look at their face, eyes, hands, feet, whole body, energy and see what they are also telling me. Then I develop a sense of who they are.
(520) 231-7999 View (520) 231-7999
Photo of Tammy Rome - Telespera Counseling, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Telespera Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85743
Ever been in that spot where life just feels like too much? Like you’re carrying the weight of the world and it’s starting to crush you? You’re stressed, you’re overwhelmed, and it feels like everything’s spinning out of control? Perfectionism and people-pleasing are robbing your joy. And you know what? Sometimes, all that stress and pressure can manifest as physical pain. It’s like our bodies are trying to tell us something our minds haven’t quite figured out yet. But here’s the thing: we’re experts at dealing with this kind of trauma. It’s our jam. We’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you through it. So, if you’re tired of feeling like you’re stuck in a never-ending cycle of stress and pain, we’ve got your back.
Ever been in that spot where life just feels like too much? Like you’re carrying the weight of the world and it’s starting to crush you? You’re stressed, you’re overwhelmed, and it feels like everything’s spinning out of control? Perfectionism and people-pleasing are robbing your joy. And you know what? Sometimes, all that stress and pressure can manifest as physical pain. It’s like our bodies are trying to tell us something our minds haven’t quite figured out yet. But here’s the thing: we’re experts at dealing with this kind of trauma. It’s our jam. We’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you through it. So, if you’re tired of feeling like you’re stuck in a never-ending cycle of stress and pain, we’ve got your back.
(520) 895-4292 View (520) 895-4292
Photo of Francesca Velez - Innervision Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Innervision Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85711
Innervision Counseling for people who wish to make changes. Experienced in motivating clients in achieving their goals for over 40 years. Compassionate acceptance of all populations and ages to enhance self acceptance, break negative patterns and identify what's important to you. Non-judgmental support around grief and losses, disabilities, pain management, chronic illnesses, trauma, addictions and healing from abuse. Experienced in dealing with Covid survivors and military families. Home visits offered to disabled seniors.
Innervision Counseling for people who wish to make changes. Experienced in motivating clients in achieving their goals for over 40 years. Compassionate acceptance of all populations and ages to enhance self acceptance, break negative patterns and identify what's important to you. Non-judgmental support around grief and losses, disabilities, pain management, chronic illnesses, trauma, addictions and healing from abuse. Experienced in dealing with Covid survivors and military families. Home visits offered to disabled seniors.
(520) 216-7386 x85711 View (520) 216-7386 x85711
Photo of Nicoline Mayger, LPC, NCC, BC-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicoline Mayger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85718  (Online Only)
My Post Master's education/training emphasis are in anxiety, chronic pain, codependency, depression, divorce, grief, family systems, parenting, relationships, self-care, and trauma, including therapy regarding difficult partners and/or extended family members, and survivors of abuse.
My practice focus is client's anxieties, depression, relationship issues, and post traumatic stress. I treat women exclusively and am passionate about increasing their confidence and strengths. We develop successful coping strategies through empowerment. Clients realize solutions never thought possible. My extensive experience includes adults, families, and children in outpatient & inpatient settings in various states.
My Post Master's education/training emphasis are in anxiety, chronic pain, codependency, depression, divorce, grief, family systems, parenting, relationships, self-care, and trauma, including therapy regarding difficult partners and/or extended family members, and survivors of abuse.
My practice focus is client's anxieties, depression, relationship issues, and post traumatic stress. I treat women exclusively and am passionate about increasing their confidence and strengths. We develop successful coping strategies through empowerment. Clients realize solutions never thought possible. My extensive experience includes adults, families, and children in outpatient & inpatient settings in various states.
(520) 369-4436 View (520) 369-4436
Photo of Yvonne C Giordano, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yvonne C Giordano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712  (Online Only)
Are you are looking to be empowered to address issues related to addiction and manage symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, trauma, insomnia, eating disorders, or grief and loss? I can offer you the opportunity to enter into a trusting relationship with a therapist who is skilled and trained, non-judgmental, supportive, validating, and empathetic to their experiences while making their journey into healing and personal growth. I work with adults and adolescents who are culturally and racially diverse, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, homeless population, those in chronic pain, and members of the Deaf community.
Are you are looking to be empowered to address issues related to addiction and manage symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, trauma, insomnia, eating disorders, or grief and loss? I can offer you the opportunity to enter into a trusting relationship with a therapist who is skilled and trained, non-judgmental, supportive, validating, and empathetic to their experiences while making their journey into healing and personal growth. I work with adults and adolescents who are culturally and racially diverse, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, homeless population, those in chronic pain, and members of the Deaf community.
(520) 843-1947 View (520) 843-1947
Photo of Tanya Witman, LAC, LMT, Counselor
Tanya Witman
Counselor, LAC, LMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
Welcome! I offer a unique evolutionary space where I specialize in guiding you through grief, chronic pain, and life transitions with a compassionate, holistic approach. My methods include somatic interventions, mindfulness, cognitive reframing, and CBT, tailored to your unique needs. A favored technique we can utilize is Transpersonal Breathwork Therapy, which blends breathwork, bodywork, and spiritual exploration to foster healing and personal growth. I also incorporate Spiritual Psychology to foster healing through mindfulness, meditation, and spiritual development.
Welcome! I offer a unique evolutionary space where I specialize in guiding you through grief, chronic pain, and life transitions with a compassionate, holistic approach. My methods include somatic interventions, mindfulness, cognitive reframing, and CBT, tailored to your unique needs. A favored technique we can utilize is Transpersonal Breathwork Therapy, which blends breathwork, bodywork, and spiritual exploration to foster healing and personal growth. I also incorporate Spiritual Psychology to foster healing through mindfulness, meditation, and spiritual development.
(520) 525-1932 View (520) 525-1932
Photo of Russell Johnson, MA, LPC, LISAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Russell Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85719  (Online Only)
I also am experienced at providing a wide variety of therapy groups including: depression, anxiety, anger, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and substance abuse.
I like working with individuals with a wide array of problems including: depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship problems, behavioral disorders, substance abuse, impulse control problems, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, family problems, life skills deficits, and problems with decision-making. My goal is to help you achieve your goals. I am in the happiness business and I want help you achieve a happy, fulfilling lifestyle. I provide compassionate care and I am an efficient and effective counselor who uses evidence-based approaches like CBT and EMDR.
I also am experienced at providing a wide variety of therapy groups including: depression, anxiety, anger, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and substance abuse.
I like working with individuals with a wide array of problems including: depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship problems, behavioral disorders, substance abuse, impulse control problems, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, family problems, life skills deficits, and problems with decision-making. My goal is to help you achieve your goals. I am in the happiness business and I want help you achieve a happy, fulfilling lifestyle. I provide compassionate care and I am an efficient and effective counselor who uses evidence-based approaches like CBT and EMDR.
(520) 462-2002 View (520) 462-2002
Photo of Dr. Brittany Burdick, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Brittany Burdick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718  (Online Only)
Pain and suffering are part of the human experience; no one is immune from those realities.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist employed at Metta, a group private practice in Tucson. I have training and interest in working with a diverse number of clinical concerns including trauma and PTSD, attachment and developmental wounds, substance abuse, identity, self-discovery, and self-worth, difficult life transitions, relational issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I highly prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental, trusting relationship with clients. I believe clients know themselves best, but I assist with gaining insight, self-understanding, and developing self-compassion and worth.
Pain and suffering are part of the human experience; no one is immune from those realities.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist employed at Metta, a group private practice in Tucson. I have training and interest in working with a diverse number of clinical concerns including trauma and PTSD, attachment and developmental wounds, substance abuse, identity, self-discovery, and self-worth, difficult life transitions, relational issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I highly prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental, trusting relationship with clients. I believe clients know themselves best, but I assist with gaining insight, self-understanding, and developing self-compassion and worth.
(520) 619-4475 View (520) 619-4475
Photo of Sarah Herndon - Entune Behavioral Health, LMSW, LCSW, LMFT, LISAC, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Entune Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, LMFT, LISAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
Entune Behavioral Health is a team of licensed therapists that provide individual, couples, and family therapy to clients ages 18 and up. Our therapists address a myriad of conditions, including generalized anxiety, depression, trauma, marital counseling, substance use and abuse, major life transitions and serious mental illness. Entune Behavioral Health's therapists are specially trained in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) therapy for trauma, MI (motivational interviewing), and SFBT (solution-focused brief therapy.
Entune Behavioral Health is a team of licensed therapists that provide individual, couples, and family therapy to clients ages 18 and up. Our therapists address a myriad of conditions, including generalized anxiety, depression, trauma, marital counseling, substance use and abuse, major life transitions and serious mental illness. Entune Behavioral Health's therapists are specially trained in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) therapy for trauma, MI (motivational interviewing), and SFBT (solution-focused brief therapy.
(520) 492-0300 View (520) 492-0300
Photo of Jack Gift, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jack Gift
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, a personality disorder, another mental health challenge, chronic pain, trouble with relationships, or difficulties at your place of employment. You may feel stuck in your life or need to clarify personal values and goals. I am skilled and experienced at working with people facing a variety of mental health and related challenges. I specialize in working with people 18 years old and older. My approach to therapy starts with the idea that people are usually the best experts on their own lives.
You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, a personality disorder, another mental health challenge, chronic pain, trouble with relationships, or difficulties at your place of employment. You may feel stuck in your life or need to clarify personal values and goals. I am skilled and experienced at working with people facing a variety of mental health and related challenges. I specialize in working with people 18 years old and older. My approach to therapy starts with the idea that people are usually the best experts on their own lives.
(520) 335-3987 View (520) 335-3987
Photo of Betty J Wittels, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Betty J Wittels
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85705
I focus upon deep issues to transform tears, heal relationships, and, even, to teach clients how to heal physical illness.
Being a psychotherapist for over 4 decades, I recognize the necessity to honor each client as an individual and to help that client to recognize and reveal true thoughts and feelings. Feeling sad, shy, frightened, furious, or any other emotion can be expressed and healed in the individual and within the family. Timing and destiny are vitally important to reveal and recognize, but even more valuable is to know that our reaction to life's events can transform our world. Whether in the mind, emotions, or spirit all things are possible.
I focus upon deep issues to transform tears, heal relationships, and, even, to teach clients how to heal physical illness.
Being a psychotherapist for over 4 decades, I recognize the necessity to honor each client as an individual and to help that client to recognize and reveal true thoughts and feelings. Feeling sad, shy, frightened, furious, or any other emotion can be expressed and healed in the individual and within the family. Timing and destiny are vitally important to reveal and recognize, but even more valuable is to know that our reaction to life's events can transform our world. Whether in the mind, emotions, or spirit all things are possible.
(520) 729-2223 View (520) 729-2223
Photo of Rachel DeLozier, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel DeLozier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
My clients want to manage symptoms related to trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, grief and loss. They are looking for a nonjudgmental, supportive environment in which to begin their own healing as they learn more about themselves and their relationships. My clients are adults and adolescents, culturally and racially diverse, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I have experience working with Tucson’s refugee and immigrant communities, children & teens, US military veterans, unhoused individuals, and those in chronic pain.
My clients want to manage symptoms related to trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, grief and loss. They are looking for a nonjudgmental, supportive environment in which to begin their own healing as they learn more about themselves and their relationships. My clients are adults and adolescents, culturally and racially diverse, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I have experience working with Tucson’s refugee and immigrant communities, children & teens, US military veterans, unhoused individuals, and those in chronic pain.
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Photo of Ryan Strong, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ryan Strong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85711
The pain you feel is a calling, a chance to deepen and grow towards your full and authentic Self.
Your situation is not unworkable. Trauma, stress, and mental health struggles are often the stuff of life. What you make of these elements is your contribution to the art of living, an art form that demands continual practice and growth. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to explore and reconnect with your inherent wisdom, clarity, and healing capacity. My aim is to assist you in shifting your energy from struggling against yourself to living intimately with the natural joy available to you in this life. Set down that which doesn't serve you and you will find room for what's here now, as well as what's to come.
The pain you feel is a calling, a chance to deepen and grow towards your full and authentic Self.
Your situation is not unworkable. Trauma, stress, and mental health struggles are often the stuff of life. What you make of these elements is your contribution to the art of living, an art form that demands continual practice and growth. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to explore and reconnect with your inherent wisdom, clarity, and healing capacity. My aim is to assist you in shifting your energy from struggling against yourself to living intimately with the natural joy available to you in this life. Set down that which doesn't serve you and you will find room for what's here now, as well as what's to come.
(928) 212-2887 View (928) 212-2887
Photo of Shawnee Inez, DBH, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shawnee Inez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
Clients come to me looking for insight and change around different concerns - pain management, depression, addiction, trauma, divorce, anxiety, life transitions and general support.
I've worked in the behavioral health field for almost 40 years, often in leadership roles, and my passion has always been providing quality care to every client I meet. Informed by an Ericksonian approach, I look at the whole person, zoom in on that glimmer of light, and together we find ways for you to open doors for a fuller, freer life. I am trained in the use of mindfulness, narrative therapy, family systems, and trauma resolution, among others.
Clients come to me looking for insight and change around different concerns - pain management, depression, addiction, trauma, divorce, anxiety, life transitions and general support.
I've worked in the behavioral health field for almost 40 years, often in leadership roles, and my passion has always been providing quality care to every client I meet. Informed by an Ericksonian approach, I look at the whole person, zoom in on that glimmer of light, and together we find ways for you to open doors for a fuller, freer life. I am trained in the use of mindfulness, narrative therapy, family systems, and trauma resolution, among others.
(928) 288-4294 View (928) 288-4294
Photo of Katie Klein, MS, LISAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Katie Klein
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LISAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704
I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families with addictions of all types, eating disorders, and body image issues. I also have vast experience working with trauma, life transitions, chronic pain, anxiety disorders, and depression in teens and adults. In addition, I like working with young adults and teens who are facing transitions into adulthood. I believe there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy and that healing takes place on all levels- mind, body, and spirit. Nothing has gone wrong in your life to get you to this point of reaching out- we all need help at some point and you deserve to feel better!
I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families with addictions of all types, eating disorders, and body image issues. I also have vast experience working with trauma, life transitions, chronic pain, anxiety disorders, and depression in teens and adults. In addition, I like working with young adults and teens who are facing transitions into adulthood. I believe there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy and that healing takes place on all levels- mind, body, and spirit. Nothing has gone wrong in your life to get you to this point of reaching out- we all need help at some point and you deserve to feel better!
(520) 210-7573 View (520) 210-7573
Photo of Deanna G McCaskill, MS, LMHC, LPC, NCC, CEDS
Deanna G McCaskill
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, NCC, CEDS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85750  (Online Only)
I have a special interest in first responders and chronic pain.
Licensed in Florida and Arizona. Certified Eating Disorders Specialist with focus on nonsuicidal self-injury, anxiety and trauma. Everyone deserves peace in their lives but oftentimes people experience fear and self-doubt from difficult experiences related to invalidating environments. I have had the dream of becoming a therapist since I was in high school and I am grateful to be living that dream. My counseling approach involves genuineness, fostering self-compassion and instilling empowerment for those I work with. It would be a privilege to hear what led you to therapy and assist you in your journey toward healing yourself.
I have a special interest in first responders and chronic pain.
Licensed in Florida and Arizona. Certified Eating Disorders Specialist with focus on nonsuicidal self-injury, anxiety and trauma. Everyone deserves peace in their lives but oftentimes people experience fear and self-doubt from difficult experiences related to invalidating environments. I have had the dream of becoming a therapist since I was in high school and I am grateful to be living that dream. My counseling approach involves genuineness, fostering self-compassion and instilling empowerment for those I work with. It would be a privilege to hear what led you to therapy and assist you in your journey toward healing yourself.
(321) 765-3073 View (321) 765-3073
Photo of Carol Lynn Winters, BS, MS, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol Lynn Winters
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MS, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85701  (Online Only)
I have joyfully worked for over 30 years in the field of rehabilitation and mental health, pain/stress management therapies.
I am a short term, wellness oriented and goal focused therapist. A joyful and purpose driven life is what most of us strive for. Sometimes we are temporarily knocked off the track by a catastrophic event or ongoing life situation that appears to be hopeless or unsolvable. These roadblocks, however, can be overcome with will, good support and the right tools necessary to change our attitudes and life circumstances so that life works for us, not against us, once again. For anxiety and depression I incorporate meditation, tapping, vagus nerve stimulation and relaxation exercises into my sessions to help you regain control.
I have joyfully worked for over 30 years in the field of rehabilitation and mental health, pain/stress management therapies.
I am a short term, wellness oriented and goal focused therapist. A joyful and purpose driven life is what most of us strive for. Sometimes we are temporarily knocked off the track by a catastrophic event or ongoing life situation that appears to be hopeless or unsolvable. These roadblocks, however, can be overcome with will, good support and the right tools necessary to change our attitudes and life circumstances so that life works for us, not against us, once again. For anxiety and depression I incorporate meditation, tapping, vagus nerve stimulation and relaxation exercises into my sessions to help you regain control.
(928) 597-3291 View (928) 597-3291
Photo of Dr. Sara E Ratliff, DBH, LCSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Sara E Ratliff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85701  (Online Only)
Through exploration of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual needs, we will use a multi-dimensional and evidence-based therapeutic approach to address life's challenges, anxiety, depression or pain.
Life is completely unpredictable, fast moving, unstoppable and often complicated. Do you feel lost, hurt, lonely, confused, depressed, and/or anxious? Do you suffer from pain that has no medical explanation? Do you worry endlessly about your physical health or medical diagnosis? If so, I will be able to help. I offer a non-judgmental space where your feelings/questions can be expressed, explored with kindness, compassion, & acceptance.
Through exploration of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual needs, we will use a multi-dimensional and evidence-based therapeutic approach to address life's challenges, anxiety, depression or pain.
Life is completely unpredictable, fast moving, unstoppable and often complicated. Do you feel lost, hurt, lonely, confused, depressed, and/or anxious? Do you suffer from pain that has no medical explanation? Do you worry endlessly about your physical health or medical diagnosis? If so, I will be able to help. I offer a non-judgmental space where your feelings/questions can be expressed, explored with kindness, compassion, & acceptance.
(410) 457-3769 View (410) 457-3769
Photo of Valerie Gold-Neil, EdD, Psychologist
Valerie Gold-Neil
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85701  (Online Only)
These conditions can effect your sleep, physical symptoms of illness and worsen physical pain.
Hello, I’m Dr. Val, I offer you a safe and compassionate place where I listen deeply to you and together we can heal the pain you are experiencing. I will guide you in increasing your self-awareness, self-compassion, acceptance and learning new ways to be in this ever changing body and world. I believe through work in therapy you can make lasting and personally empowering changes that will serve you and those you love.
These conditions can effect your sleep, physical symptoms of illness and worsen physical pain.
Hello, I’m Dr. Val, I offer you a safe and compassionate place where I listen deeply to you and together we can heal the pain you are experiencing. I will guide you in increasing your self-awareness, self-compassion, acceptance and learning new ways to be in this ever changing body and world. I believe through work in therapy you can make lasting and personally empowering changes that will serve you and those you love.
(520) 582-9794 View (520) 582-9794
Photo of Tammy Rome, LPC, LCPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy Rome
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85743  (Online Only)
Overachieving, perfectionistic people-pleasers wanted! You’re successful and everyone knows it. No one would ever suspect how much you worry and second-guess yourself. Yet, away from the spotlight, you’re overwhelmed with taking care of everything and everyone. If this sounds familiar, I’d love to meet with you to strategize how we might work together to give you some real relief. At Telespera Counseling, you'll discover a different kind of therapy that's tailored just for you. My role is coach and guide. You are always in charge of your healing journey.
Overachieving, perfectionistic people-pleasers wanted! You’re successful and everyone knows it. No one would ever suspect how much you worry and second-guess yourself. Yet, away from the spotlight, you’re overwhelmed with taking care of everything and everyone. If this sounds familiar, I’d love to meet with you to strategize how we might work together to give you some real relief. At Telespera Counseling, you'll discover a different kind of therapy that's tailored just for you. My role is coach and guide. You are always in charge of your healing journey.
(520) 523-2401 View (520) 523-2401
1
Chronic Pain Therapists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.